More Than Mardi Gras-Wonderful Winter Weekend in the Big Easy

This year’s New Orleans Mardi Gras festivitieshave just begun. But, as Robert and I discovered a little more than a month ago, there is so much more to experience in this city that is not only rich in its own unique culture and cuisine, but is also known as the birthplace of Jazz.

Tapestry of Famed New Orleans Jazz Artists

The temperature was unusually cold for that area at the end of December- about the low 40’s- but Robert and I were not disappointed with all of the interesting things that New Orleans had to offer.

Our hotel was one of many in the French Quarter, the city’s oldest neighborhood, and, as soon as we settled in, we proceeded, as usual, to experience the sites by walking and eating:

Shopping– Numerous tourist shops dotted the streets of the French Quarter to sell the same Mardi Gras beads, feathery masks, and magnets. So we were happy to discover, as an alternative and a short walk away, the Riverwalk Marketplace which contained several unique gift stores and eateries.

Riverwalk Marketplace

Various events were scheduled outside this structure located on the shore of the Mississippi River, but we were entertained inside by employees of the Fudgery as they sang and prepared their delicious treats.

Performance at the Fudgery

The inhabitants of the Big Easy love a celebration and, while browsing through the beautiful antique shops and art galleries on Royal Street, we stumbled upon a joyous wedding procession.

Wedding procession

The parade of well wishers happily traveled through the streets while waving white cloth napkins that bared the name of the happy couple.

The French Market was another interesting place to go to with its rows and rows of tables filled with flea market goods. A few of the tourist items that I had seen at various stores were less expensive there.

Tours-Robert and I love to explore on our own, but, while at the Riverwalk Marketplace, we met up with Cher Miller, Manager of the New Orleans Visitor Center, who recommended Cajun Encounters Tour Co.